FAQ’s
1. What is therapy, and how can it help me?
Therapy is a process where you work with a licensed mental health professional to explore your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts in a safe, confidential space. Therapy can help with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and more. Through therapy, you can gain insights, develop coping strategies, and work toward emotional healing and personal growth.
2. What types of therapy do you offer?
I offer several therapeutic approaches tailored to your unique needs, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Mindfulness-based Therapy
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Please feel free to ask about any specific modalities or approaches during our consultation!
3. Do I need to be referred by a doctor to begin therapy?
No, you do not need a referral from a doctor to start therapy. You can contact me directly to schedule an initial consultation, where we’ll discuss your concerns and determine the best therapeutic approach for you.
4. How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you're experiencing emotional distress, challenges in your personal or professional life, or finding it hard to cope with specific issues (e.g., anxiety, stress, relationship struggles), therapy can be a helpful resource. If you're unsure, an initial consultation can help determine whether therapy is the right fit for you.
5. What should I expect during my first therapy session?
During the first session, we’ll discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any relevant background information. It’s a time for you to ask questions and share any concerns. This session will help us create a plan that aligns with your needs and therapeutic goals.
6. How long are therapy sessions, and how many sessions will I need?
Sessions typically last 50-60 minutes. The number of sessions you’ll need depends on your individual goals, the issues you're working on, and your progress over time. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy (e.g., 6-12 sessions), while others may need longer-term support. We’ll regularly reassess your progress to determine the best course of action.
7. Do you offer online therapy or telehealth services?
Yes, I offer virtual therapy sessions via secure video conferencing platforms. This option provides flexibility and convenience for those who prefer or require remote therapy due to location, health concerns, or other reasons.
8. Are my sessions confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a critical component of the therapeutic relationship. All sessions are kept confidential, and I adhere to legal and ethical guidelines regarding privacy. However, there are certain exceptions where confidentiality may be breached (e.g., if you or someone else is at risk of harm). We will discuss these exceptions in detail during your first session.
9. Do you accept insurance?
I accept Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield and Oxford insurance plans, and offer an out-of-network option for those whose insurance I don't directly work with. Please contact your insurance company to verify your benefits, or we can discuss other payment options if necessary.
10. What is the cost of therapy, and do you offer sliding scale fees?
The cost of therapy varies depending on the type of session and your specific needs. I also offer sliding scale fees for individuals who may have financial concerns. Please contact me directly to discuss rates and payment options.
11. How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (862) 217-4783, emailing cynthiag@contigo-counseling.com, or using the online booking system on this website. If you're unsure which service is right for you, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
12. Can therapy help with anxiety or depression?
Yes, therapy is highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Together, we can work on identifying thought patterns and behaviors contributing to your symptoms and develop strategies for managing or alleviating them.
13. What if I miss a session or need to cancel?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please notify me at least 24 hours in advance. If you miss a session without prior notice, you may be charged a cancellation fee of $100. If you're unsure about my cancellation policy, feel free to ask during your initial session.
14. Will I need medication along with therapy?
Therapy can be highly effective on its own, but in some cases, medication may be beneficial. If this is something you’re interested in exploring, I can refer you to a medical professional who can assess your needs and discuss medication options with you.
15. How do I know if I'm making progress in therapy?
Therapy is a collaborative process, and progress is often seen through improvements in your mood, coping skills, and overall sense of well-being. We will regularly assess your goals, celebrate small victories, and adjust our approach as necessary to ensure that you’re moving forward.
16. ¿Ofrecen servicios en español?
Sí, ofrezco servicios de terapia en español. Si prefieres comunicarte en español durante las sesiones, no dudes en informarme. Estoy comprometida en brindarte un espacio seguro y de apoyo en el idioma con el que te sientas más cómodo(a).
17. Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes, I offer a free 15-minute consultation where we can get to know each other and discuss your therapeutic needs. During this consultation, you can ask me any questions, and together we can determine if my approach is a good fit for you. You can schedule your free consultation through our online system or by contacting me directly.